Islanders sign center Derick Brassard

The veteran signed a one-year deal worth $1.2 million

By Colin Martin | Aug 21 | 5:45PM

Share:

Apr 28, 2019; San Jose, CA, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Derick Brassard (18) reacts after missing a shot against the San Jose Sharks in the second period of game two of the second round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports (John Hefti)

According to Arthur Staple of The Athletic, the Islanders have officially signed center Derick Brassard to a one year deal worth $1.2 million.

Brassard, 31, has played in 786 career NHL games with six different teams over the course of his career. He entered the league in 2006, when the Columbus Blue Jackets selected him with the No. 6 overall pick, and played there until 2013. Among his other stops are the New York Rangers, Ottawa Senators, Pittsburgh Penguins, Florida Panthers, and most recently the Colorado Avalanche.

Last season, which he spent with the Penguins, the Panthers, and the Avalanche, Brassard played in 70 games and managed 14 points off goals and 23 points total. It was definitely the worst season of the veteran's career, but he does bring some offense to the third line.

The Islanders were a true upstart and underdog story last season in the NHL, rolling to a surprise second-place finish in the Metropolitan Division and a first-round sweep of the Pittsburgh Penguins.

That dream run ended when the Carolina Hurricanes returned the sweep favor in the second round, but Islanders general manager Lou Lamoriello says a major key to continue the franchise's recent successes was the approval of the organization's new Belmont arena.

"You know how big it is. Without a new arena, there would not be the Islanders on Long Island. I think that says it all," Lamoriello told Newsday.

'You had one job...'

By Alex Smith | Aug 10 | 3:48PM

Share:

Apr 28, 2019; Brooklyn, NY, USA; New York Islanders goalie Robin Lehner (40) makes a save against the Carolina Hurricanes during the third period of game two of the second round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports (Brad Penner)

Former Islanders goalie Robin Lehner was awarded the 2018-19 Masterton Trophy, given annually to the National Hockey League player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to ice hockey.

On Saturday, he shared a photo of the trophy on his Twitter account, with one glaring error.

Disappointing seasons from the Rangers and Devils prompted impressive offseason work from both organizations. It certainly helped that both teams had the top two picks in the NHL Draft -- selections that netted potentially franchise-altering talents in Kappo Kakko and Jack Hughes, respectively.

While they didn't have a high draft pick or significant free agent signing, the Islanders made a handful of moves, mainly in the form of re-signings. For the most part, their roster enters 2019-20 relatively unchanged.

Taking all of this into consideration, here's a closer look at the biggest moves each organization made...

Robin Lehner explains what happened with him and Islanders

Lehner said team gave him an 'ultimatum' without hearing his decision

By Tom Krosnowski | Jul 2 | 6:08PM

Share:

Apr 28, 2019; Brooklyn, NY, USA; New York Islanders goalie Robin Lehner (40) makes a save against the Carolina Hurricanes during the third period of game two of the second round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports (Brad Penner)

On the heels of the Islanders' winningest season since 1984, the expectation was that the team would try its hardest to keep Vezina Trophy finalist Robin Lehner around.

Once free agency started though, Lehner might as well have been voted off the Island.

According to Lehner, he was given an "ultimatum" from the Islanders, and they moved on without hearing his decision.

Islanders on free agent Artemi Panarin's list, but not the favorite

The Panthers are at the top, with Isles and Rangers behind

Jun 27 | 11:38AM

Share:

May 2, 2019; Columbus, OH, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets left wing Artemi Panarin (9) celebrates after scoring a goal against the Boston Bruins in the first period during game four of the second round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports (Aaron Doster)

The top free agent in the NHL market this summer is by far Artemi Panarin, the Blue Jackets' left winger that has been a consistent points machine for four seasons. The Islanders are expected to be very aggressive in trying to land him, but they don't seem to be the favorite at the moment.

According to The Post's Brett Cyrgalis, the Panthers are the leading candidate to land the 27-year-old. The two main reasons Cyrgalis has the Panthers at the top is the fact that Florida doesn't have any state income taxes, and the Panthers have hired Joel Quenneville as head coach. Quennevile coached Panarin during his first two seasons with the Blackhawks.

Why does income tax matter? Florida can actually offer Panarin more than the Islanders, or even the Rangers, when it comes down to contracts. Panarin is looking to settle down with a seven-year deal at $11-12 million per season.

With the NHL Draft in the books, the Islanders have important roster decisions to make

Captain Anders Lee is set to hit the open market on July 1st

By Peter Botte | Jun 22 | 6:27PM

Share:

New York Islanders left wing Anders Lee handles the puck against Carolina Hurricanes goalie Petr Mrazek during the second period in Game 1 of the second round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Barclays Center. (Catalina Fragoso/USA TODAY Sports)

Now that the NHL Draft is over, the Islanders must turn their full attention to avoiding a second consecutive summer defined by the departure of their team captain.

John Tavares infamously bolted for hometown Toronto as an unrestricted free agent last July, and the Isles are moving precariously close to his replacement wearing the "C" - left wing Anders Lee -- hitting the open market. Free agents can begin speaking with other teams beginning Sunday, with the signing period slated to open on July 1.

"I never thought it would get to this point, but I guess it's the nature of what this week means," Lee told Newsday at a charitable function to raise money for children with cancer on Saturday in New York.

Holmstrom has been a member of the Swedish National Junior Team

Jun 21 | 10:52PM

Share:

Jun 21, 2019; Vancouver, BC, Canada; Simon Holmstrom after being selected as the number twenty-three overall pick to the New York Islanders in the first round of the 2019 NHL Draft at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports (Anne-Marie Sorvin)

The Islanders selected RW Simon Holmstrom with the 23rd-overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft.

Islanders goalie Robin Lehner is no stranger to long odds. Suggesting at this time a year ago that he would be a Masterton Trophy winner and a Vezina Trophy finalist might have even surprised Lehner, though.

Lehner took home the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy Wednesday night, awarded to the player who best exemplifies perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to the game. Earlier this season, he shared his inspiring story about his battle with addiction and bipolar disorder, which resulted in an outpouring of support and admiration from players and fans alike. Lehner responded by leading the Isles to the playoffs with the best season of his career.

Before he collected his award, Lehner spoke about his looming contract situation. He isn't signed for next season, but made it very clear on Tuesday's media day that he desperately wants to be back on the Island.

Islanders head coach Barry Trotz wins 2019 Jack Adams Award

Trotz helped turn the Islanders around in his first season, sweeping the Penguins in the first round of the playoffs

Jun 19 | 9:45PM

Share:

Mar 28, 2019; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; New York Islanders Head Coach Barry Trotz looks on during the third period against the Winnipeg Jets at Bell MTS Place. Mandatory Credit: James Carey Lauder-USA TODAY Sports (James Carey Lauder)

Islanders head coach Barry Trotz was awarded the 2019 Jack Adams Award, given annually to the NHL coach who contributed the most to his team's success.

Trotz is the second Islanders head coach to ever win the award, joining Al Arbour in 1978-79.

In his first season with the Islanders, Trotz led the club to a 103-point campaign, their highest point total since the 1983-84 season. The Islanders' fourth-place Eastern Conference ranking was their best finish since the conference was created in 1993.

Robin Lehner took home some hardware at Tuesday's NHL Awards in Las Vegas.

The Islanders goalie was awarded the 2019 Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, given annually to the National Hockey League player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to ice hockey.

He's the third Islander to win the award, along with former captain Ed Westfall in1976-77 and goalie Mark Fitzpatrick in the 1991-92 season.

What about Lee, Lehner, and external improvements?

By Tom Krosnowski | Jun 17 | 2:15PM

Share:

Apr 14, 2019; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; The New York Islanders celebrate a goal by right wing Jordan Eberle (7) against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the first period in game three of the first round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs at PPG PAINTS Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports (Charles LeClaire)

The Islanders surprised many by re-signing winger Jordan Eberle last week to a five-year, $27.5 million contract. Although Eberle's numbers took a dip last season, he was important during the playoffs and fills an important void as a top-six winger.

Eberle took a slight pay cut to re-sign and has said that he enjoys playing on Long Island. Still, the deal came as a bit of a shocker to some fans, who are still waiting on clarity regarding the futures of captain Anders Lee and Vezina Trophy finalist Robin Lehner.

Don't worry, Isles fans. There is likely still enough money to bring back Lee and Lehner. The team has $22 million in cap space, with only Lee, Lehner, a few depth pieces and restricted free agents Anthony Beauvillier and Michael Dal Colle to sign. There should be enough room to at least sign Lee and Lehner and the RFAs.

Islanders reach contract extension with Jordan Eberle

Eberle was scheduled to become a free agent on July 1

Jun 14 | 12:18PM

Share:

Apr 1, 2019; Uniondale, NY, USA; New York Islanders celebrates the goal by New York Islanders right wing Jordan Eberle (7) against the Toronto Maple Leafs during the third period at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Schneidler-USA TODAY Sports (Dennis Schneidler)

Jordan Eberle is sticking with the Islanders.

The 29-year-old winger, who was scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, agreed to a five-year, $27.5 million contract extension with the Islanders on Friday. The new deal will carry a $5.5 million cap hit.

The Islanders originally traded for Eberle before the 2017-18 season in a deal that sent Ryan Strome to the Edmonton Oilers.

The latest on Islanders forwards Cal Clutterbuck and Andrew Ladd

Updates on the two wingers after they each underwent surgery

May 31 | 6:30PM

Share:

Apr 14, 2019; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; New York Islanders right wing Cal Clutterbuck (15) skates with the puck against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the third period in game three of the first round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs at PPG PAINTS Arena. The Islanders won 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports (Charles LeClaire)

Cal Clutterbuck and Andrew Ladd have been through surgery, but they are on different recovery timelines.

After undergoing back surgery, Clutterbuck -- who had two slipped discs, two rotated vertebrae and a stress fracture -- has a good chance to be ready for training camp.

"It's my understanding he will be," Lou Lamoriello told The Athletic. "But honestly it's a process I don't know much about. He's doing well right now. I get updates all the time, he's been here. We just have to trust the process and the doctors. It turned out the way the doctors felt it would."

Islanders re-sign forward Tanner Fritz to two-year deal

Fritz was called up in March before undergoing blood clot surgery

May 31 | 5:43PM

Share:

Oct 4, 2018; Raleigh, NC, USA; New York Islanders center Tanner Fritz (11) looks up during the game against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena. The New York Islanders defeated the Carolina Hurricanes 2-1 in the overtime. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports (James Guillory)

The Islanders announced on Friday they re-signed impending free agent Tanner Fritz to a two-year contract.

According to multiple reports, Fritz will get $700,000 next season on a one-way deal, but he'll be on a two-way deal for the 2020-21 season. He'll earn $700,000 that season in the NHL, or have a $250,000 salary in the AHL but will get $275,000 guaranteed.

The 27-year-old forward provides depth up front for the Isles. He was thrust into a pivotal role in March as the third-line center when Valtteri Filppula went down with an elbow injury.

Read More

Comments

Share:

How many players in the Stanley Cup Final have New York connections?

Several familiar faces have a chance to win the Cup this year

By Tom Krosnowski | May 27 | 10:00AM

Share:

(Geoff Burke)

Although no New York-area teams made it to the Stanley Cup Final this year, the Empire State will still have a large impact on hockey's grandest stage. Twelve players from the Boston Bruins and St. Louis Blues have connections with the New York metro area in some way, so local fans still have plenty of reasons to tune in.

Boston Bruins

The Bruins have one of the largest collections of American-born hockey players of any team in the NHL. Not surprisingly, several of them have called New York home for at least part of their careers.

Islanders re-sign Brock Nelson to long-term extension

Nelson back on six-year deal

May 23 | 12:20PM

Share:

New York Islanders center Brock Nelson reacts with right wing Josh Bailey after scoring a goal against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the first period in Game 3 of the first round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs at PPG PAINTS Arena. (Charles LeClaire/USA TODAY Sports)

The Islanders announced they re-signed forward Brock Nelson to a six-year deal on Thursday.

The 27-year-old Nelson ranked third on the team with 53 points this season, scoring 25 goals and tallying 28 assists in 82 games.

With about a month-and-a-half remaining until the start of free agency on July 1, and just more than five weeks until the interview period, there's nothing certain yet regarding which of the Islanders' pending unrestricted free agents will be back with the team.

Future uncertain for some as team cleans out lockers

May 6 | 2:59PM

Lou Lamoriello, Anders Lee, Robin Lehner, and Barry Trotz look ahead to an offseason of change and growth for the New York Islanders.

The Islanders cleaned out their lockers on Monday and officially closed out their 2018-19 season, which saw them reach the second-round of the playoffs only to be swept by the Carolina Hurricanes.

While the team lost John Tavares to the Toronto Maple Leafs last summer, the Islanders still exceeded expectations behind first-year head coach Barry Trotz and first-year team president Lou Lamoriello.

Lamoriello and Trotz both addressed the media on Monday on what lies ahead for the franchise. Center Mathew Barzal, captain Anders Lee and goalie Robin Lehner, the latter of whom are free agents, also discussed the future of the team as well as what could be in store for their own futures.

The extent of his recovery time could be anywhere between four to six weeks or four to six months and it is hard to imagine it will not be the latter, which would likely mean he would start next season on the IR.

5 questions for the Islanders as they enter a critical offseason

By Justin Tasch | May 4 | 7:00PM

Share:

May 3, 2019; Raleigh, NC, USA; New York Islanders goaltender Robin Lehner (40) and left wing Anders Lee (27) looks on during warmups before the game against the Carolina Hurricanes in game four of the second round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs at PNC Arena. The Carolina Hurricanes defeated the New York Islanders 5-2. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports (James Guillory)

There will be a sour taste in the Islanders' mouths after being swept by Carolina, one round after sweeping Pittsburgh. This surprising season was indubitably a success given their low expectations, but knowing that the Eastern Conference was wide open and there for the taking will leave the Isles closely examing the hows and whys of their elimination.

It leads into what will be a crucial summer for the Islanders. They've got the coach, they've got the GM and they've gone from having a bleak outlook to legitimate contenders. Now they need to figure out how to take the next step toward winning the Stanley Cup. Here are five big questions the Islanders face entering the offseason.

1. Will Robin Lehner remain with the Islanders?

Nothing went right for Barry Trotz and the Islanders against Hurricanes

After pushing the right buttons all year, Trotz couldn't get Isles going in second round

By Scott Charles | May 3 | 11:54PM

Share:

May 3, 2019; Raleigh, NC, USA; New York Islanders head coach Barry Trotz looks on from behind the players bench against the Carolina Hurricanes during the third period in game four of the second round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs at PNC Arena. The Carolina Hurricanes defeated the New York Islanders 5-2. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports (James Guillory)

Barry Trotz couldn't find the right buttons to push as the Islanders were eliminated from the Stanley Cup Playoffs Friday evening.

Different line combinations, a goaltender swap early in the second period and the threat of elimination weren't enough as the Hurricanes defeated the Islanders 5-2 and advanced to the Eastern Conference Final for the first time since 2008-09.

Several teams have won 4-0 and then lost 0-4 in consecutive playoff series. However, the only team to do that in the first two rounds of a postseason since the NHL expanded the first round to best-of-seven in 1986-87 was the Sabres in 1993 when they swept the Bruins and then were swept by the Canadiens (per Elias Sports Bureau.)

Takeaways from Friday's Game 4 loss to Hurricanes as Islanders get swept

A terrific season for the Isles comes to a bitter end

May 3 | 9:38PM

Share:

Canes complete sweep of Isles00:02:01

Head coaches Barry Trotz and Rod Brind'Amour comment on the Hurricanes sweep of the Islanders.

Four up, four down. That's how it went for the Islanders in the playoffs as after they swept the Penguins in the first round, they just couldn't make enough plays to pull out a victory against the Hurricanes. The Isles dropped Game 4 Friday night, 5-2, and were swept out of the postseason. >> Box Score

Six takeaways from Friday's game...

Islanders' Robin Lehner keeps the net, Cal Clutterbuck out for Game 4

New York showed jumbled lines during warmup

May 3 | 7:00PM

Share:

Apr 28, 2019; Brooklyn, NY, USA; New York Islanders goalie Robin Lehner (40) makes a save against the Carolina Hurricanes during the third period of game two of the second round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports (Brad Penner)

After more than a day of speculation, Robin Lehner keeps the Islander net for Game 4 Friday night, with Thomas Greiss remaining on the bench.

Cal Clutterbuck, who played in Game 3 despite dealing with an apparent leg injury, is out Friday. Michael Dal Colle enters the lineup.

After saying Thursday he was considering wholesale changes to the Islanders' lineup, Barry Trotz wouldn't reveal his plans Friday hours before their do-or-die Game 4 in Raleigh.

Trotz said he wanted to keep the Hurricanes "on their toes" and didn't name a starting goaltender. Robin Lehner has started the Isles' first seven playoff games, but he worked in a timeshare with Thomas Greiss during the season.

The drastic changes Islanders coach Barry Trotz is considering for Game 4

Trotz might overhaul lineup with Isles trailing 3-0 to Carolina

May 3 | 12:40AM

Share:

May 1, 2019; Raleigh, NC, USA; New York Islanders coach Barry Trotz speaks to the media after game three of the second round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports (James Guillory)

The Islanders could look very different in Game 4.

Barry Trotz is considering a lineup overhaul with the Islanders on the brink, trailing Carolina 3-0 in the second round heading into Friday's do-or-die contest.

And those changes might even including benching Vezina finalist Robin Lehner.

"At all positions," Trotz said when asked about where changes could come.

Safety concerns cited as reason for broom ban

May 2 | 7:43PM

Share:

May 1, 2019; Raleigh, NC, USA; A general view of PNC Arena prior to game three of the second round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs between the Carolina Hurricanes and the New York Islanders. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports (James Guillory)

The Islanders might get swept Friday night in Raleigh, but there won't be any brooms in PNC Arena.

In a message to season-ticket holders, the Hurricanes told fans that brooms won't be allowed inside when Carolina hosts Game 4 of the second-round series.

Ex-Islander Calvin de Haan says Brooklyn is 'great for' Hurricanes

Isles' second-round home games at Barclays after playing first round at Coliseum

May 2 | 5:40PM

Share:

May 1, 2019; Raleigh, NC, USA; Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Calvin de Haan (44) battles for the puck with New York Islanders center Casey Cizikas (53) in game three of the second round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs at PNC Arena. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports (James Guillory)

Calvin de Haan played at both Nassau Coliseum and Barclays Center during his five seasons with the Islanders before signing with Carolina last summer. He knows how rowdy the fans can get in Uniondale, and he believes the Islanders playing their second-round home games in Brooklyn helps his current team.

"It's great for us," de Haan said Thursday, according to Newsday. "It's good for the away team. It kind of negates the home-ice advantage to a certain extent. I've played there (the Coliseum) and it's loud and you do feed off of that. Whether you think of it or not, you do feed off the momentum of the crowd and it seemed to elevate everybody on the bench. But it is what it is. That's Mr. Bettman's decision so, whatever."

Key mistakes leave Islanders with backs against the wall in Carolina

Trotz: "We have to earn the right to keep playing."

By Scott Charles | May 1 | 11:54PM

Share:

May 1, 2019; Raleigh, NC, USA; Carolina Hurricanes right wing Justin Williams (14) celebrates after a goal against the New York Islanders during the third period in game three of the second round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs at PNC Arena. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports (James Guillory)

The New York Islanders left Barclays Center believing the results were not a reflection of their effort through the first two games of the Second Round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

However, on Wednesday night at PNC Arena in Raleigh, the Islanders were not the better team and now face a monumental challenge trailing the Carolina Hurricanes, 3-0.

Teuvo Teravainen scored twice and Sebastian Aho recorded a goal and an assist, as the Hurricanes skated to a 5-2 victory in Game 3. Justin Faulk and Justin Williams also found the back of the net while Curtis McElhinney made 28 saves.

Islanders Takeaways from Wednesday's Game 3 loss to Hurricanes

New York is in desperation mode now

May 1 | 9:54PM

Barry Trotz is realistic after the 5-2 loss against the Hurricanes. The Isles have a steep hill to climb as the Canes can clinch on Friday.

The Islanders are in a big hole after the Hurricanes handled them in a 5-2 loss on the road to give themselves a 3-0 lead in this Second Round series. >> Box Score

Five takeaways from Wednesday's game...

1) It was the Hurricanes getting on the board first, as Teuvo Teravainen buried it right next to the goal line. But Devon Toews quickly made it a tie game at one apiece with a power play goal. It was the rookie's first Stanley Cup Playoff goal of his career.

Islanders aiming for first win in Game 3 of Second Round vs. Hurricanes at 7 p.m.

New York will look for redemption after blowing lead late in Game 2

May 1 | 5:47PM

Share:

New York Islanders left wing Anders Lee handles the puck against Carolina Hurricanes goalie Petr Mrazek during the second period in Game 1 of the second round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Barclays Center. (Catalina Fragoso/USA TODAY Sports)

Islanders coach Barry Trotz said their objective this week is to put wins together, one at a time.

"You can't win two unless you focus on the first, so we'll focus on the first and go from there," he said.

The Hurricanes have already knocked off the defending champion Capitals. Now they're trying to topple the team coached by last year's title-winning coach. >> Read More

Islanders' Robin Lehner: 'We're just going to go down there and win'

Goaltender confident despite Isles trailing Carolina 2-0 in series

May 1 | 10:01AM

Share:

Apr 28, 2019; Brooklyn, NY, USA; New York Islanders goalie Robin Lehner (40) makes a save against the Carolina Hurricanes during the third period of game two of the second round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports (Brad Penner)

Maybe this can be considered a guarantee, maybe not.

At the very least, Robin Lehner'scomments to the New York Post Tuesday before the Islanders traveled to Raleigh for Game 3 reflect the great amount of confidence the Islanders maintain despite trailing 2-0 in their second-round series against Carolina.

"It's not a big deal. We're just going to go down there and win," Lehner told The Post.

WATCH: Islanders discuss Game 3 matchup vs. Hurricanes

Mathew Barzel and Isles talk about heading to Carolina down 0-2

Apr 30 | 8:32PM

Share:

Isles ready for game 300:00:50

Lee, Barzal and Bailey comment on game three against the Carolina Hurricanes. Facing adversity could be helpful in the long run.

The Islanders and Carolina Hurricanes square off on Wednesday at 7 p.m. in Game 3 of the second-round playoff series as New York heads down to Carolina in an 0-2 hole. Mathew Barzal, Josh Bailey and Anders Lee talk about the adversity the team faces in a critical Game 3.

Hurricanes goalie Curtis McElhinney to make first career postseason start in Game 3 against Islanders

Journeyman will replace injured Petr Mrazek in net

Apr 30 | 4:20PM

Share:

Apr 28, 2019; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Carolina Hurricanes goalie Curtis McElhinney (35) makes a save against the New York Islanders during the second period of game two of the second round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports (Brad Penner)

No time like the present for your first career playoff start -- even if Curtis McElhinney has already spent 11 seasons in the NHL.

Yet, McElhinney has never began a playoff game between the pipes. That will change during Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, with the Islanders trailing Carolina 2-0 in the series.

If the Islanders want any chance of leveling the series on the road, they'll need to get to McElhinney, who stopped all 17 shots he faced at the end of Game 2 -- a 2-1 Hurricanes victory Sunday at the Barclays Center -- first.

Read More

Comments

Share:

Here's who Islanders could turn to if Cal Clutterbuck misses Game 3

Winger left Game 2 with back injury

Apr 30 | 9:35AM

Share:

Apr 14, 2019; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; New York Islanders right wing Cal Clutterbuck (15) skates with the puck against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the third period in game three of the first round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs at PPG PAINTS Arena. The Islanders won 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports (Charles LeClaire)

Barry Trotz did not offer much on Cal Clutterbuck's status for Game 3, but his tight lips could mean that the winger won't suit up for Game 3 of the second-round series against the Hurricanes.

When reporters inquired about a Clutterback update Monday, the coach responded with a one-word answer: "Nope."

Given that uncertainty, here are a few options the Isles can turn to in Clutterbuck's absence:

What the Islanders need to do better heading into Game 3 vs. Hurricanes

Islanders head to Carolina down 2-0 in series

By Justin Tasch | Apr 29 | 5:39PM

Share:

Trotz ready for critical game 300:00:42

Ahead of Game 3 on the road, Barry Trotz and the Isles aren't panicked.

There was a lot of talk about reality by the Islanders Sunday after Game 2 in Brooklyn. There was Barry Trotz, whose players generally carry the same poise he presents behind the bench, talking about how his team played a fairly complete game.

"That's the cruel reality sometimes is that you play really well and you don't get the result," he said.

Then there was Robin Lehner, the outstanding goaltender who summed up the game in this way: "We're not going to put excuses on hitting posts and bars and stuff, but the reality is I think we were the better team, and they just scored one more than us."

Anders Lee on Islanders' Game 2 loss: 'We played our game for close to 59 minutes'

Islanders allow two goals in 48 seconds

By Scott Charles | Apr 28 | 8:09PM

Share:

New York Islanders left wing Anders Lee shoots against Carolina Hurricanes goalie Curtis McElhinney in front of Carolina Hurricanes defensemen Jaccob Slavin and Brett Pesce and Islanders center Brock Nelson during the third period of Game 2 of the second round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Barclays Center. (Brad Penner/USA TODAY Sports)

It changed in a matter of moments for the Islanders Sunday afternoon.

The Islanders entered the third period of Game 2 with a one-goal lead, but in the first 65 seconds of the final frame, the game was flipped upside down when the Hurricanes lit the lamp twice and stormed to a 2-1 victory

Warren Foegele wired a wrister from a sharp angle just 17 seconds into the third period, and then former Islander Nino Niederreiter redirected a puck past Robin Lehner 48 seconds later to give the Hurricanes a one-goal advantage they would never relinquish.

"It's pretty simple, we played our game for close to 59 minutes," Islanders captain Anders Lee said. "Credit to them for popping two and holding us at the end."

Islanders takeaways from Sunday's Game 2 loss to Hurricanes

Islanders blow third-period lead, fall into 2-0 series hole

Apr 28 | 5:52PM

Share:

Isles fall to Hurricanes, 2-100:00:45

Barry Trotz and Robin Lehner discuss missed scoring opportunities as the Islanders fell to the Hurricanes on Sunday in Brooklyn, 2-1.

The Islanders allowed two third-period goals and lost to the Carolina Hurricanes 2-1 on Sunday at Barclays Center in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, falling in a 2-0 series deficit. >> Box score

Five takeaways from Sunday's game

1) Leading 1-0 heading into the third period, Robin Lehner and the Islanders allowed two goals in a 48-second span. Warren Foegele tied it 17 seconds into the period for Carolina, and Nino Niederreiter deflected a shot in front of Lehner into the back of the net to make it 2-1.

2) After outscoring the Penguins 14-7 in a four-game sweep, the Islanders have managed just one goal through the first two games of the conference semis.

Islanders hope to tie series against Hurricanes, Game 2 at 3 p.m.

Isles are trailing in a for first time these playoffs after sweeping Penguins in opening round

Apr 28 | 12:52PM

Share:

Apr 26, 2019; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Carolina Hurricanes goalie Petr Mrazek (34) is knocked over by New York Islanders left wing Anders Lee (27) during the second period in game one of the second round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Catalina Fragoso-USA TODAY Sports (Catalina Fragoso)

The Hurricanes look to continue their nail-biting playoff run Sunday afternoon when they visit the Islanders in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn after a Game 1 overtime victory.

The latest bit of dramatics by the Hurricanes put their opponents into an unfamiliar position: trailing in a postseason series. The Islanders swept the Pittsburgh Penguins in the first round, during which they trailed for just four minutes and 51 seconds.

"Some areas we can clean up, but it was a good hockey game," Islanders right winger Matt Martin said afterward. "We'll regroup. It's a race to four (wins) so we've got to win the next one."

Islanders focused on big picture after dropping Game 1 to Hurricanes

New York got back to its style after long layoff, but can't fall too far behind in series

By Scott Charles | Apr 27 | 9:18AM

Share:

Apr 26, 2019; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Fans throw rally shirts onto the ice after the New York Islanders lose 0-1 to the Carolina Hurricanes in overtime in game one of the second round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Catalina Fragoso-USA TODAY Sports (Catalina Fragoso)

Despite making quick work of the Pittsburgh Penguins in the opening round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the New York Islanders are taking a long-term approach to their second opponent.

Jordan Staal's overtime goal helped the Carolina Hurricanes grab an early series lead, but the Islanders remain focused on the bigger picture and are planting seeds that will be advantageous as the series goes on.

"When we put the puck down low and are hard on their defense, we kind of think of it as an investment," fourth-line forward Matt Martin said after the 1-0 loss in Game 1. "Over the course of the series, you keep wearing them down."

Islanders Takeaways from 1-0 Game 1 overtime loss to Hurricanes

Jordan Staal scores 4:04 into overtime to hand the Isles their first loss of the playoffs

By Justin Tasch | Apr 26 | 10:06PM

Share:

Apr 26, 2019; Brooklyn, NY, USA; New York Islanders goalie Robin Lehner (40) and defenseman Nick Led (2) defend the net as Carolina Hurricanes right wing Justin Williams (14) skates with the puck during the third period in game one of the second round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Catalina Fragoso-USA TODAY Sports (Catalina Fragoso)

The Islanders were locked in a scoreless duel that stretched into overtime, but they fell to the Hurricanes at home Friday night, 1-0, in Game 1 of the second round. >> Box score

Five Takeaways from Friday's game

1) Jordan Staal scored the game's only goal 4:04 into overtime to give the Hurricanes the win and hand the Isles their first loss of the postseason. Nino Niederreiter had a bank pass off the end boards around the net to Staal, whose shot went off Robin Lehner's left skate as he was trying to close the post and went in.

Islanders coach Barry Trotz named finalist for Jack Adams award

Trotz led Isles to remarkable turnaround after loss of John Tavares

Apr 26 | 6:51PM

Share:

Mar 28, 2019; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; New York Islanders Head Coach Barry Trotz looks on during the third period against the Winnipeg Jets at Bell MTS Place. Mandatory Credit: James Carey Lauder-USA TODAY Sports (James Carey Lauder)

After leading the Islanders to a surprisingly successful regular season which culminated in a playoff berth, Barry Trotz has been named one of the three finalists for the Jack Adams award, the NHL's coach of the year honor.

Tampa Bay's Jon Cooper and St. Louis' Craig Berube are the other finalists.

Last year, the Islanders went 35-37-10 and missed the playoffs by 17 points. They then lost their star player and captain John Tavares as he went home to play for the Maple Leafs.

Read More

Comments

Share:

Islanders finally return to action, host Hurricanes in Game 1 in Brooklyn at 7 p.m.

New York's home games shift from Coliseum to Barclays after nine-day layoff

Apr 26 | 5:56PM

Share:

Isle fans could be advantage00:00:38

Patrick Sharp said the atmosphere at Nassau Coliseum was insane, he expect fans will bring the same thing to Barclays Center.

The Islanders have been off since Apr. 16, when they completed a four-game sweep of the Pittsburgh Penguins with a 3-1 win. It was just the second postseason series win since 1994 for New York, which advanced to the second round in 2016.

The Islanders held five practices during their long break, but head coach Barry Trotz sensed something different Thursday morning.

"You could tell that there's guys that are turning the switch on a little bit -- not that they've turned it off, they've done a really good job, but I think the urgency is definitely there," said Trotz, who coached the Capitals to the Stanley Cup title last season before joining the Islanders last June. "They're a little more business-like, if you will. They've been business-like right through, but this is just a little different level."